Photographer Jenny Anderson (who shot our fabulous Classic New York Films and Tony Awards Parties photos) brings BroadwayBox backstage for an exclusive new series capturing Broadway companies getting ready to take the stage. Recently, she dropped by the Stephen Sondheim Theatre to photograph the company of the long-running hit bio-musical Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
as they prepared for a Wednesday matinee.
We kick off the afternoon in the pure magnificence and elegance of Liz Larson’s dressing room. Liz has played Carole’s mom, Genie Klein, since the production began.
Once she’s in full Genie drag, Liz uses the time to catch up on calls. #Icon
New star Ben Jacoby keeps one eye on the game as he begins his pre-show prep to play famed musician Barry Mann.
OBC member Sara King paints on her eyebrows as she prepares to take the stage at today’s performance as spitfire lyricist Cynthia Weil.
Something Alan Wiggins said has left Sara in stitches!
Next we stop in to see Beautiful’s new leading man, Evan Todd.
Evan makes his Broadway debut playing Carole’s husband and writing partner Gerry Goffin.
Giving us total greaser boy vibez.
In the ladies dressing room, we find them taking a break from prep, huddled around looking at a photo.
Oh hey, “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” soloist, Gisela Adisa!
Then we pop by the guys’ room to see how The Drifters (Melvin Tunstall, Alan Wiggins, Nicholas Ryan, & Paris Nix) are doing this afternoon.
After making his debut in The Lion King, the very hunky Mr. Alan Wiggins returns to Broadway in Beautiful.
Then it’s off to the wig room to see how Sara King’s Cynthia Weil transformation is coming along. Clearly, it’s a joy starring on Broadway.
And there’s Cynthia!
Also, a moment for that kimono because it is EVERYTHING!
In the wig room, we also find Rosharra Francis getting into her first wig. Rosharra makes her Broadway debut in Beautiful.
Paul Anthony Stewart co-stars as Don Kirshner, aka The Man With the Golden Ear.
Finally, it’s time to visit leading lady, Abby Mueller. After starring on the tour, Abby brings her Carole King to Broadway, and it’s fantastic!
Stunning.
Abby Mueller is ready to wow this matinee crowd with her Carole King.
Onstage mama and daughter share a moment as they race to places.
Kevin Duda (who plays Neil Sedaka, among others) is on point with his Beautiful branding.
Laurel Harris begins her show as Carole’s high school friend, Betty.
Adam Dietlein gives us one last look before places!
The overture ends and Abby Mueller is in place to kick off the show with a little “So Far Away”. See Abby and company in Beautiful at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre.
